Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe

If you are searching for a festive and delightful dessert to brighten up your holiday table, look no further than this Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe. Bursting with zesty orange notes and studded with tart cranberries, this cake combines the dense, buttery richness of a traditional pound cake with the fresh flavors of the season. It’s easy to make, wonderfully moist, and topped with a sweet orange glaze that perfectly complements every bite. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings or gifting something homemade, this recipe is sure to become a treasured holiday classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe is carefully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy butter that forms the base to the vibrant cranberries that add bursts of tartness, each component plays an essential role in making this cake irresistible.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy foundation and keeps the cake tender.
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
• 4 large eggs: Adds structure and moisture for a dense but soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and depth of the cake.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Infuses a bright, festive citrus note that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base dry ingredient to give the cake its classic pound cake texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough without losing its traditional density.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes moisture and a slight tang to keep the cake luscious.
• 1/4 cup orange juice: Adds extra citrus brightness and tenderizes the crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient adding both visual appeal and tart bursts in every bite.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet, glossy glaze that finishes the cake with elegance.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze): Brings refreshing citrus balance to the glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Complements the glaze with warmth and richness.

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour either a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan to ensure your pound cake releases beautifully after baking. This step sets the stage for a smooth baking process and a clean removal later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar. Beat them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This effort traps air and creates a perfect base for a tender crumb, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Orange Zest

Beat the eggs in one at a time, blending each fully before adding the next to maintain a consistent texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh orange zest. These ingredients add depth and a lovely aroma that will make your kitchen smell like holiday magic.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent so your bake will rise evenly without any salty spots.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream and orange juice. This technique helps maintain moisture and prevents overmixing, which could toughen the cake. Mix until just combined to keep the texture perfectly tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold the fresh or frozen cranberries into the batter. Take your time here to prevent breaking the berries too much, which can color the batter but also give those delightful tart bursts in the cake.

Step 7: Pour Batter and Smooth

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smoothen the top with a spatula. This simple step helps your cake bake evenly and develop a gorgeous, uniform crust on top.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, testing for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the cake starts browning too fast, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning while still baking through.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting time helps set its structure, making it easier to handle. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before glazing to prevent the icing from melting.

Step 10: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract to craft a silky glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled cake, adding a final touch of sweetness and festive shine that makes this Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe unforgettable.

How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, consider garnishing with whole fresh cranberries and a few sprigs of rosemary or mint. These bright reds and greens amp up the holiday spirit and add a touch of natural elegance.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a cozy winter treat, a cup of hot tea or a glass of mulled wine complements the citrusy, tart flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the pound cake into thick, generous pieces and serve on a festive platter layered with powdered sugar or edible gold dust. Wrapping individual slices in parchment tied with a pretty ribbon also makes for a delightful gift or party favor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe will keep nicely at room temperature, stored in an airtight container, for about 3 to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making each slice more delicious than the last.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead for holiday festivities, this pound cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To refresh your pound cake, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This lifts the flavors and gives the cake a soft, just-baked feel that’s simply irresistible alongside your favorite hot beverage.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure not to thaw them completely before folding into the batter to avoid adding extra moisture, which could affect the cake’s texture.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the cake batter?

While you could substitute sour cream with yogurt or buttermilk, sour cream adds a particular richness and moisture that enhances the crumb’s tenderness, making it highly recommended.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, with some modifications. Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream or coconut yogurt. Be mindful that this might slightly alter the texture and flavor, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet with raw batter, it needs more time. Cover the top with foil if it’s browning too quickly during baking.

Can this pound cake be made in a bundt pan?

Yes! A bundt pan is a beautiful option for this Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe. Just make sure to grease and flour the pan well to avoid sticking, and adjust baking time if needed based on your oven and pan size.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about sharing a homemade treat that brings people together, especially during the holidays. This Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe is an absolute gem, combining comforting textures with festive flavors that everyone will adore. Whether it’s your first time baking it or you’re bringing it back as a holiday tradition, I promise it will fill your kitchen and heart with warmth and joy. Give it a try and watch as it becomes a favorite at your celebrations year after year!

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